NEWS & CURRENT ACTIVITES

August 11, 2010

On the 11th of August 2010, His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa visited TIPA (Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts) Dharamshal as a Chief Guest on the occasion of the 51st Yarkyid (Summer Festival) and celebration of its establishment. The celebration was opened by His Holiness by lighting a lamp in front of a glowing Buddha Statue, which was also a symbol of respect to those who had died in the tragic natural calamities in Tibet, Ladakh and other parts of the world.

His Holiness presented the award cups to the winner and the runners up, and other special prizes to the artists, and he blessed the gathering with the opening of a new book about TIPA’s historical records.

Judging the admirable presentation given by two troupes during the celebration, His Holiness expressed appreciation to the artists and concerned staff members for their tireless service and dedication. He further encouraged them to continue their good service in preserving Tibet’s unique culture and tradition, the combination of modern arts and the world of music.

August 10, 2010

On the 10th of August 2010, His Holiness The 17th Gyalwang Karmapa Ogyen Trinley Dorje called for a special prayer and ritual performance of Buddha Akshyobhiya. In His presence at Gyuto Temple, in His private residence Hall, prayers were conducted for the recent tragedy in Ladakh, during which more then hundreds of people had died and many had become homeless.

Two special members from the Karmapa’s Office of Administration have been sent to Ladakh with material gifts of clothes, medicines, and cash contributions to the befallen people in need.

A condolence and sympathetic message by His Holiness was also dispatched with the Office members headed for Ladakh, expressing His sincere prayers and blessings to all concerned.

August 7, 2010

I feel deeply saddened to learn of the recent calamity that struck Leh in Ladakh in the early hours of the 6th of August resulting in the loss of many lives and property. I understand the sudden cloudburst triggering raging floods have resulted in the loss of lives of more that 100 people of Leh and surrounding areas and over 400 people have been injured and many more are missing and have been rendered homeless. I have personally visited Leh and other places of Ladakh on two occasions and have been deeply touched by the warmth and hospitality the people of the region extended to me and others with me. I truly feel distressed that the peace loving people and the Buddhist community of this region have had to experience this tragedy.

On this sad occasion I would like to extend to the people of Leh and Ladakh my prayers and condolences to the bereaved families. I would also like to request all my monasteries and organizations to offer prayers and special pujas and extend any future help to the people of Ladakh who have had to suffer this tragedy.

August 6, 2010 – Gyuto

Dagyab Kyabgön Rinpoche met with His Holiness Karmapa at His Holiness’ residence in Gyuto. Loden Sherab Dagyab Rinpoche belongs to the Gelug tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. As “Kyabgön” (Lord Protector) of the Dagyab region in Eastern Tibet he is – like his predecessors since the 17th century – the spiritual and political head of the area. After the traditional study of Buddhist philosophy, Rinpoche graduated from the Drepung monastic college. Later Rinpoche joined the monastic communities of Nyagre Khangtsen of Ganden, and of Ratö Monastery.

The meeting between Dagyab Rinpoche and Gyalwang Karmapa lasted about half an hour. Rinpoche arrived in Dharamsala a week ago.

July 7 – Gyuto. His Holiness performed the Gye-Dor Lha-Nga (5 Deities of Hevajra) prayer from Je-Duesum Khenpa’s text Thug-Dham Nga. Goshir Gyaltsab Rinpoche, and all the monks in the Labrang, attended the prayers.

Quotes from the 17th Karmapa

Each person must find his or her own path. Nonetheless, seek guidance from wise and compassionate people and listen to them earnestly. This will help you find the best way to proceed – now and in the future.- Karmapa on Guidance

All traditions, whether religious or secular, have developed to benefit human society. In the event that a tradition or system becomes harmful, there’s no need to insist on following it.- Karmapa on Tradition

Human beings are the most intelligent and resourceful species on earth. If we use our intelligence to cause more suffering, rather than to bring some real benefit to others and ourselves, we are no better than beasts.- Karmapa on Intelligence

Just to simply relax and rest in your own natural state is all that you need to do. When you give yourself that opportunity, you’ll find that presence extends to the other parts of your life.- Karmapa on Meditation

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